
Think Smart IB Blog
Expert IB knowledge, rigorously reviewed by top IB tutors - specialists in their fields - to ensure clarity, accuracy, and student success.
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IB Math AI Paper 1 - Your guide to Acing it!
Are you preparing for your IB Math AI Paper 1 exam? This comprehensive guide breaks down the structure of Paper 1 for SL and HL students, provides practical preparation tips, and shows you how to make the most of your calculator and formula booklet. Get ready with expert advice and examples from past papers!

IB vs AP: Which Program is Right for You?
Thinking about IB or AP? This expert guide compares both programs in depth — from structure to college admissions — so you can make the best academic choice.

IB Math AA Paper 1 – Expert Strategies to Ace It
Preparing for your IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches exam can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this guide, we break down what to expect from Paper 1, including structure, timing, scoring, and tips to boost your performance. Whether you're in SL or HL, you’ll learn how to approach questions strategically, avoid common mistakes, and study effectively using past papers and examiners' expectations.
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TOK Essay Word Count Guide [Updated for 2025]
Worried about the TOK essay word count? In this guide, we’ll show you how to hit the 1600-word target perfectly, avoid penalties, and strengthen your arguments — plus get expert help with cutting or expanding your draft!

TOK Essay Structure and Format: Clear Steps to Follow
Confused about the TOK essay structure and format? Our practical breakdown shows exactly what IB examiners want—plus how to get personalized support with your essay from Day 1.

IB Scores to GPA Conversion in the US (With Charts & Examples)
Curious how your IB grades compare to a US GPA? This guide breaks down the IB-to-GPA conversion process with helpful charts, real-world examples, and advice from admissions experts. Learn how universities interpret your scores and how to make your application stand out.

Choosing Your Perfect TOK Exhibition Prompt: All 35 TOK Prompts Explained
Choosing the right TOK Exhibition prompt doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this ultimate guide, we break down all 35 official prompts with simple, practical explanations and real-life object examples that make everything click. Whether you’re just starting or feeling stuck, you’ll learn how to confidently select the best prompt, connect your objects clearly, and avoid the most common mistakes students make. Let’s make your TOK Exhibition your strongest IB assessment yet.

TOK Core and Optional Themes
Confused about TOK Core and Optional Themes? This guide simplifies everything, helping you structure essays, choose strong examples, and avoid common mistakes. Master TOK with ease!

TOK Areas of Knowledge Explained
Struggling with TOK Areas of Knowledge? You’re not alone. This no-nonsense guide simplifies the five AOKs—Natural Sciences, Human Sciences, History, The Arts, and Mathematics—so you can stop stressing and start scoring higher. Get clear explanations, real-world examples, and expert TOK tips to boost your essays and assessments. Ready to make TOK easier? Let’s break it down.

25 Unique Physics IA Ideas: Internal Assessment Topics
The IB Internal Assessment is a crucial project where students apply their theoretical knowledge in practice. Discover what makes a great IA and explore 25 unique physics IA ideas to kickstart your research. Need help? Our expert tutors are here to guide you!

25 Unique Math IA Ideas
So let’s jump into what you are here for. Here is a list of 25 possible topics that serve as great math IA ideas. And keep in mind that in a math IA, it is more important to pick a topic that genuinely motivates you to display personal engagement than to pick something that sounds harder but does not resonate with you.

IB Math IA Structure and Format:
Struggling with your IB Math IA structure or format? This step-by-step guide breaks down each section, ensuring clarity, organization, and alignment with IB standards—helping you maximize your score effortlessly.

IB Math IA Criteria Explained:
If you're preparing to take on your IB Math IA, understanding the essential steps is key to ensuring a strong and well-structured investigation.
We're here to simplify the process by guiding you through topic selection, mathematical exploration, and effective structuring to align with IB criteria.
Let’s dive into how you can confidently approach your Math IA and maximize your chances of success in your IB Mathematics course.

The Ultimate Guide to IB Extended Essay
If you’re gearing up to tackle your IB Extended Essay, it’s crucial to understand the key steps that will guide you through this process.
We’re here to make this journey easier by helping you choose the right topic, craft a compelling research question, and structure your essay effectively to meet IB standards.
Let’s dive into how you can confidently navigate the EE process and set yourself up for success in your IB Diploma.

What If I Fail the IB Diploma?
If you’ve recently faced challenges with your IB Diploma, it’s important to understand your next steps and options.
We’re here to simplify this process by walking you through immediate actions, exploring retake opportunities, and helping you avoid future pitfalls.
Let’s dive into how you can take control of your IB journey and set yourself up for success.

A Straightforward Guide to UCAS Admissions for IB Students
Do you want to go to university in the UK after the IB program?
If your answer is yes, then you'll more than likely be using UCAS to apply to your dream universities, which is why we created this step-by-step guide to UCAS admissions, tailored specifically to IB students.
Read more to avoid making any stupid mistakes that could cost you your place in your dream university.

How to Convert Your IB Scores into UCAS Points: A Simple Guide to UCAS Tariff Points
If you're an IB student planning to apply to universities in the UK, you’ll need to understand how your IB scores translate into UCAS points.
We want to simplify this process for you, by breaking down how IB scores are converted into UCAS points.
So, let’s get straight into how you can turn your IB achievements into UCAS points, and set yourself up for a successful application.

The Ultimate UCAS Personal Statement Guide
Your personal statement is one of the crucial parts of any UCAS application.
Getting it right can vastly increase your chances of getting into your desired university, while getting it wrong may disqualify you from the race immediately.
Read this guide to turn your statement into an unfair advantage in your race to the university of your dreams.

How to Write a Winning Personal Statement for US / Canadian Colleges
Want to know how to write a winning personal statement for US or Canadian colleges?
Read this blog to find a full guide to doing so and boost your chances of getting into the school of your dreams.
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Mid-IB Summer Courses - Are They Worth It? [Updated for 2025]
Heading into your final year of the IB can feel daunting. The workload is intense, the expectations are high, and your future prospects feel like they hang in the balance.
It’s a time when every bit of preparation can make a significant difference in your performance.
This is where Mid-IB Summer Courses step in. But are they really beneficial?